[Differences in the use of C-reactive protein analysis and erythrocyte sedimentation in general practice and hospitals. Development from 1986 to 1995].

Analysis for C-reactive protein (CRP) was introduced in the Vejle Hospital catchment area in 1987. During the next ten year period the use of CRP has increased to reach a stable level both on hospital wards, out-patient clinics and in general practice. While the use of erythrocyte sedimentation rate on wards has decreased correspondingly, this is not seen in out-patient clinics or in general practice. There are medical as well as practical reasons for this discrepancy. It is believed that the possibility of performing a CRP as a point-of-care test in the GPs office in the future will lead to a reduction in the number of analyses of erythrocyte sedimentation rate performed in general practice as well.